When we talk about the sequels, Luke Skywalker’s arc usually gets most of the attention, but Han and Leia’s stories are just as complex—and often just as controversial.
In the sequels, we see them take on new, deeply layered roles that show how much they’ve grown—and struggled—over the years.
The sequels give us a fresh look at who they’ve become, and while not everyone agrees on the choices made for their characters, there’s a lot to appreciate in how they were handled.
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Han Solo’s Journey from Reluctant Hero to Self-Sacrificing Father
In The Force Awakens, Han has returned to his old smuggling ways, a choice that initially surprised some fans.
But looking at it closely, Han’s journey is rooted in the complexity of loss.
He’s grieving for his son, Ben, who turned to the dark side, and he’s processing his separation from Leia.
Smuggling might seem like a step backward, but it’s also a familiar comfort, a place where Han could escape the pain of his family’s struggles.
Yet, despite his return to old habits, Han hasn’t lost his courage or heart.
When he finally confronts Kylo Ren on Starkiller Base, we see the ultimate evolution of his character.
This isn’t the same Han who once avoided responsibility; this is a father willing to sacrifice everything to try and save his son.
It’s a powerful moment, blending the best of Han’s courage, loyalty, and love, making him one of the most memorable parts of the sequels.
Leia Organa’s Strength as a Resilient Leader
Leia’s journey in the sequels is nothing short of inspiring.
After everything she’s endured—losing Alderaan, fighting the Empire, and now facing the threat of the First Order—Leia remains a leader.
She’s still the heart of the Resistance, guiding the galaxy’s fight against tyranny with strength and compassion, even when faced with personal heartbreak.
The fall of her son to the dark side is a crushing blow, but instead of breaking her, it strengthens her resolve to keep fighting for the light.
In The Force Awakens, we see Leia working tirelessly to rally the Resistance against the First Order. She’s the one sending out reconnaissance missions, and she’s not afraid to put herself in harm’s way to protect her allies.
Despite the challenges, she remains calm and focused, maintaining the spirit of hope the Resistance needs.
Her brief but heartfelt reunion with Han shows her enduring love and commitment to her family, even when things haven’t turned out the way they hoped.
In The Last Jedi, we witness Leia’s resilience firsthand when she’s nearly killed in a First Order attack.
Using the Force to pull herself back to safety, she shows an incredible strength of will. Even after suffering from such a devastating blow, she immediately returns to her role as a leader.
Finally, in The Rise of Skywalker, Leia makes her most selfless move yet. Knowing she has little time left, she reaches out through the Force to her son, Ben, in a final attempt to bring him back to the light.
This act costs Leia her life, but it serves as a powerful reminder of her unconditional love and dedication.
Her connection to Ben becomes the catalyst for his redemption, showing that even in her final moments, Leia’s legacy is one of hope and unwavering faith in the goodness of others.
Throughout the sequels, Leia is not only a strategist and warrior but also a symbol of hope for the galaxy.
While some fans wanted more exploration of her relationship with Han or her inner emotional journey, her actions speak volumes.
The Legacy They Leave Behind
While we didn’t get to see Han, Leia, and Luke together in the sequels—a moment many fans hoped for—Han and Leia’s stories still add something meaningful to the Star Wars saga.
Their stories may not have wrapped up with a perfect, happy ending, but there’s something powerful about the way they keep fighting, hoping, and sacrificing for the galaxy they love.
Their struggles make them feel real, and through everything, they continue to inspire a new generation.
Han’s ultimate sacrifice for his son and Leia’s final act of reaching out to Ben show just how much they were willing to give up for the people they loved.
Their arcs reflect the courage, loyalty, and resilience that made them beloved heroes in the first place.
Even though they face loss and heartbreak, they stay true to themselves and to the cause they believe in.